THE SEXUAL AND CONTRACEPTIVE SOCIALIZATION OF BLACK-ADOLESCENT MALES (BLACK-ADOLESCENT SEXUALITY)

The major source, quantity, and quality of sex and contraceptive information African‐American males received as teenagers, and the impact of that information on sexual and contraceptive behavior, were examined among 250 males ranging in age from 12 to 70 years. Mothers were the major sources of sex and birth control information for the adolescent, young adult, and middle adult groups. Fathers and male friends were the second sources most indicated. All of the sample received sex information, and only a small proportion received no birth control information. The amount of sex information received was found to be a significant predictor (P= 0.0018) of the age at first intercourse and the regularity of use of birth control after that. The amount of birth control information received was also a significant predictor (P = 0.0093) of the regularity of use of birth control after the first coitus. Because parents influence their children's behavior through a socialization process, their support of their teenage sons in matters of sexuality and contraception may be of potential value in mitigating the effects of early, unprotected sex. Copyright © 1991, Wiley Blackwell. All rights reserved